River City, Aerial Perspective

Bertrand Goldberg

Created:
Movement:
1979
None
key Notes:
Brutalist Architecture, Urban Landscape
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Dimensions:
45.6 × 57.9 cm (18 × 22 13/16 in.)
medium:
Ink and graphite on tracing paper
Difficulty:
Expert
New game
story of the work:

"River City, Aerial Perspective" is a work by American architect and artist Bertrand Goldberg, who is known for his innovative designs and contributions to modern architecture. The painting depicts a conceptual view of River City, a residential complex designed by Goldberg in the 1970s, located along the Chicago River. The artwork reflects Goldberg's interest in urban planning and his vision for integrating architecture with the natural environment. The use of aerial perspective in the painting emphasizes the relationship between the built environment and the surrounding landscape. Goldberg's artistic practice often intersected with his architectural work, allowing him to explore ideas of space, form, and community. The exact date of creation for this specific painting remains unknown, but it is representative of Goldberg's broader oeuvre, which includes both architectural projects and visual art.

Description of the work:

"River City, Aerial Perspective" by Bertrand Goldberg is a work executed in ink and graphite on tracing paper. The composition presents a detailed aerial view of an urban landscape, characterized by a complex arrangement of geometric forms and organic shapes. The use of ink provides a stark contrast against the translucent quality of the tracing paper, allowing for a layered effect that enhances the depth of the cityscape. Goldberg's meticulous line work delineates various architectural elements, suggesting a dynamic interplay between built structures and the surrounding environment. The overall layout reflects a thoughtful organization of space, with pathways and waterways interwoven among the buildings, indicative of Goldberg's interest in urban planning and community design. The tonal variations achieved through graphite shading contribute to the three-dimensionality of the forms, emphasizing the sculptural qualities of the architecture. The work exemplifies Goldberg's innovative approach to design, merging artistic expression with functional urbanism.

Artwork Photograph Source:
Art Institute of Chicago

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River City, Aerial Perspective